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What is the difference between SUP and canoe (kayak) in Ishigaki Island? Our Ishigaki Island resident staff will thoroughly compare them!
Hello, everyone! Have you heard of SUP, which is all the rage right now?
Since it has been featured in the media and on social media, and its name recognition and popularity have skyrocketed in recent years, many of you may already be familiar with it.
SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) is a new and exciting activity where you stand on a board and paddle your way across the water.
Because this board offers exceptional stability, even beginners can get the hang of it right away, and since maintaining balance engages your entire body, it helps strengthen your core.
Although it originated in Hawaii and was once a sport favored by celebrities, it has recently become more common in Japan as well, and some people are even buying their own boards to incorporate it into their daily lives as a hobby.
Ishigaki Island is the perfect place to enjoy “SUP,” this new classic, from a variety of perspectives.
In this article, we’ll provide information on SUP tours that are both stylish and great for exercise.
We hope this helps make your trip the best it can be.
Table of Contents
What is SUP?
As mentioned at the beginning, SUP is a new kind of water activity that originated in Hawaii. It’s a simple activity where you stand on a board and use a paddle to move across the water.
One theory holds that it originated in Waikiki in the 1960s, when beach boys would paddle out into the waves with tourists on board. Although it disappeared for a time due to the rise of surfing, it has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years!
Some of the reasons for SUP's popularity include its convenience, stylish appeal, and fitness benefits.
First of all, the only equipment you need to try SUP is a SUP board and a paddle. Of course, beginners and those participating in guided tours are required to wear safety gear, but basically, you can get started easily with just a board and a paddle!
It’s easy to get started and you’ll improve quickly, so it’s recommended even for those who aren’t very athletic. SUP boards are larger than surfboards and have good buoyancy, which makes them very stable, so with just a little practice, you’ll be able to stand on the board with no trouble.
Although it is quite stable, you still need to maintain your balance since you’re standing on the water. In doing so, you engage your abdominal, back, and lower-body muscles, which helps strengthen your core. Paddling through the water also works your biceps and chest muscles. As a result, it is recognized as a full-body workout.
SUP, which allows you to enjoy the ripples on the water’s surface and the scenery, seems to have significant psychological benefits and can serve as a great outlet for those looking to relieve stress or cope with worries.
SUP is an activity that can be enjoyed not only in the ocean but also in rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, and there are different ways to enjoy it depending on the location.
For example, at the beach, paddleboarding on a white sandy beach with blue waters makes for some great photos. On a river, in stark contrast to the ocean, the setting surrounded by greenery creates a calm and relaxing atmosphere. At a lake, unlike the ocean or a river, there are fewer waves, so even beginners can get started with confidence.
I hope I've been able to convey the appeal of SUP—its convenience, style, and exercise benefits.
With so much to offer, SUP provides a variety of experiences on Ishigaki Island. We’ll introduce them below!
9 Recommended SUP Spots on Ishigaki Island
SUP on Ishigaki Island (Part 1): “Blue Cave SUP”
The first activity I’d like to introduce is SUP at the Blue Cave.
Have you ever heard of the Blue Grotto?
The Blue Cave gets its name because the sunlight makes the inside of the cave glow blue. Paddleboarding through those crystal-clear blue waters is simply “the best.” The atmosphere inside the Blue Cave is, of course, amazing, but there are also many coral colonies surrounding the cave, and the colorful fish and blue corals viewed from your board are truly beautiful.Since SUP offers a high degree of freedom, you can take in the scenery on the water, sit on the board, lie down, and more—the possibilities are endless.
Let’s immerse ourselves fully in the Blue Grotto and experience that magical world.
Ishigaki Island SUP Part 2: “Fukidori River SUP”
Next up is the Fuki-dori River SUP tour.
The Fukidori River is characterized by its mangrove jungle communities, which are densely populated with mangrove forests.
Since it is also a national park, its natural beauty is exceptional compared to other jungles.
Stand-up paddleboarding surrounded by the mangrove forests of Ishigaki Island is an incredibly refreshing experience!
Mangrove forests are home to a wide variety of wildlife, and you can spot gobies and crabs hopping across the mudflats.
In the jungle, where people also go trekking, the sounds of wildlife and the rustling of plants create a truly pleasant atmosphere.
SUP on Ishigaki Island, Part 3: “SUP in Kabira Bay”
SUP in Kabira Bay is also one of the most popular SUP activities on Ishigaki Island.
Kabira Bay is known as one of Ishigaki Island’s most scenic spots.
A stroll on the water above the vast emerald-green sea is a truly delightful experience.
Why not come experience Kabira Bay, which has been awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide?
SUP on Ishigaki Island, Part 4: “SUP in Nagura Bay”
Nagura Bay is the largest bay on Ishigaki. We highly recommend trying SUP in Nagura Bay!
One of the best things to do when SUPing in Nagura Bay is to go SUPing at sunset.
Since it is the largest bay on Ishigaki Island, you can see the ocean stretching all the way to the horizon, and the sunset sinking into it is so beautiful it leaves you speechless.
Not only is the scenery beautiful, but the area is also home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, and it has been designated as a protected site under the Ramsar Convention.
Why not take in the wildlife from a maneuverable SUP, then let yourself be captivated by the sunset on Ishigaki Island?
Ishigaki Island SUP #5: “Miyara River SUP”
The Miyara River is home to the largest mangrove forest on Ishigaki Island. It is 1.5 km long, and its area is said to be equivalent to about 48 Tokyo Domes.
A SUP cruise while taking in such magnificent scenery is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Since it's easily accessible from downtown, you can even drop by for a quick visit whenever you have a moment.
Just looking at the vast mangrove forest makes all my daily stress and worries melt away.
SUP on Ishigaki Island (6): “Sunrise SUP”
If you want to make the most of your trip to Ishigaki Island, it’s best to enjoy the whole day, from morning to night! That’s why many people go SUPing early in the morning.
I head out to the field before sunrise to practice paddleboarding.
By the time you’ve gotten the hang of it, the sun will be peeking over the horizon. On a morning when there’s no dust in the air, the waters off Ishigaki Island are exceptionally clear.
The sunrise reflecting off such a beautiful sea is absolutely breathtaking.
Not only does getting some exercise on a SUP while basking in the morning sun feel great, but it also wakes up both your body and mind, allowing you to start your day feeling refreshed.
Let's get off to a great start in Ishigaki Island life!
SUP on Ishigaki Island #7: “Sunset SUP”
As I mentioned in the post about SUP in Nagura Bay, if you want to see a sunset, I highly recommend Ishigaki Island.
The sight of the crystal-clear blue sea and the lush green jungle gradually turning a deep crimson is truly breathtaking!
At sunset, there is a truly magical time known as the “magic hour,” when the setting sun glows golden.
It’s also a real treat to share such a wonderful moment with someone special while gazing out at the view from the deck. You’re sure to be moved!
SUP on Ishigaki Island ⑧: “SUP Yoga”
Yoga is a new trend in SUP. Lately, it’s become common to see people practicing SUP yoga against the backdrop of the beautiful ocean.
Since SUP yoga involves holding poses while maintaining balance, it is known to strengthen the core more effectively than regular SUP.
Since we don't just do strength training for the sake of it, we can achieve a more natural and beautiful physique.
Furthermore, yoga therapy is said to aim to relieve daily suffering and create a comfortable state of stability for both the mind and body.
Why not try SUP yoga, which is great for both beauty and health?
SUP on Ishigaki Island (9): “Mangrove SUP”
As I briefly mentioned in relation to the Miyara River and the Fukidori River, mangrove SUP is one of the most popular activities on Ishigaki Island.
A SUP cruise surrounded by vast mangrove forests stirs a sense of adventure straight out of a movie.
Ishigaki Island is home to extensive stands of mangrove forests designated as Natural Monuments.
It’s said that exercising while surrounded by greenery is scientifically the most relaxing thing one can do, so mangrove SUP is truly the perfect activity for rejuvenation.
If you ever visit Ishigaki Island, the Jungle Cruising SUP tour is a must-do.
Introducing SUP Tours on Ishigaki Island!
Ishigaki Island SUP Tour #1: Fuki-dori River Mangrove SUP & Jungle Trekking
The first Ishigaki Island SUP tour we’d like to introduce is the Fukidori River Mangrove SUP & Jungle Trekking Tour!
Through the mangrove forests along the Fukidori River, which is designated as part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park—a national park—
We're going for a cruise on our SUPs.
While cruising, you can also observe the creatures that live in the mudflats and in the water.
After paddling upriver on a SUP cruise, we’ll go on a hike to Yabiku Falls.
Ishigaki Island is rich in unspoiled nature, and this jungle forest is also largely in its natural state; when trekking here, you may wade through rivers and sometimes have to push your way through vegetation and over rocks.
Ishigaki Island SUP Tour #2: Kabira Bay SUP & Snorkeling at the "Phantom Island"
Next up is the Kabira Bay SUP & "Phantom Island" Snorkeling Tour.
You can enjoy a SUP experience at "Kabira Bay," one of Ishigaki Island's most iconic scenic spots, which has also been awarded three stars in the Michelin Green Guide.
It feels wonderful to take a virtual stroll through the emerald-green waters where various tropical fish swim.
If you've only ever tried SUP in the ocean, trying it in Kabira Bay will feel like a whole new kind of activity.
It's that beautiful.
In addition to SUP in Kabira Bay, this tour offers a snorkeling experience at the "Phantom Island."
The "Phantom Island" is a remote island called Hamajima, which can only be reached at low tide.
As the tide recedes, it emerges, and as the tide rises, it vanishes like a mirage; because of this rare phenomenon, it came to be known as the "Phantom Island."
Surrounded by the ocean on all sides with nothing to obstruct the view, you can see the horizon from anywhere.
In addition, near Hamajima lies Japan’s largest coral reef, which is part of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park. Of course, it is also home to an abundance of tropical fish.
Snorkeling in Japan’s largest coral reef offers breathtaking views in every direction.
Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters allows you to get a good look at marine life.
Why not join a tour that lets you experience two hidden gems: SUP at Ishigaki’s most scenic spot and snorkeling at the “Phantom Island”?
Ishigaki Island SUP Tour #3: Mangrove SUP & Blue Cave Snorkeling
The last SUP tour we’d like to introduce is the Mangrove SUP & Blue Cave Snorkeling Tour!
Cruising through the mangrove forest gives you the feeling of being on an adventure.
Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery that’s perfect for social media no matter where you look, your SUP experience is sure to be unforgettable.
After enjoying a stylish SUP experience that originated in Hawaii, we’ll head to the Blue Cave, a hidden gem on Ishigaki Island!
The starting point is Maibara Beach, which is also a national park. It’s exhilarating to paddle out over the crystal-clear ocean that stretches as far as the eye can see!
When you arrive at the Blue Grotto, you’ll find yourself taking a deep breath at the sight of the blue, otherworldly space—something you simply can’t see on the mainland.
About Canoeing on Ishigaki Island
Canoeing is a classic water activity, and you can try it on Ishigaki Island as well.
There are two main types of canoeing on Ishigaki Island: ocean canoeing and river canoeing. While canoeing on Ishigaki Island may bring to mind marine activities, that’s not necessarily the case.
There is a river on Ishigaki Island that is lined with vast mangrove forests. That’s why you can go canoeing both in the ocean and on the river.
In addition, canoeing on Ishigaki Island offers a variety of ways to enjoy it, depending on the time of day and the setting.
Features of Canoeing on Ishigaki Island
Ishigaki Island is one of the Yaeyama Islands, located at the southernmost tip of Japan, and is a remote island with a subtropical climate. On this island, you can enjoy canoeing on both the ocean and rivers.
Thanks to its subtropical climate—as mentioned at the beginning—Ishigaki Island is home to extensive mangrove forests. Paddling a canoe down a river surrounded by a lush jungle is sure to be a thrilling experience.
It’s safe to say that enjoying a jungle cruise by canoe is a unique experience on Ishigaki Island.
Meanwhile, ”sea kayaking,” a water activity, is also very popular. It feels wonderful to paddle leisurely across the emerald-green sea.
The water is incredibly clear, so you can observe the coral and tropical fish right from your canoe. When you get tired, just put down your paddle, let the current carry you, and relax.
There are countless other examples, such as canoeing at sunrise or sunset, but there’s no doubt that people enjoy canoeing in all kinds of settings.
Why Canoeing on Ishigaki Island Is So Popular
As mentioned above, the reasons why canoeing on Ishigaki Island is so popular certainly include the chance to relax in the beautiful ocean and the opportunity to enjoy the experience in a variety of settings, such as the ocean and rivers.
That's not the only reason why canoeing on Ishigaki Island is so popular.
For example, one reason is that even beginners can easily give it a try.
The canoes used on tours of Ishigaki Island are built to be very sturdy and offer exceptional stability. As a result, capsizing or falling overboard is extremely rare. Additionally, the water is incredibly clear—you can see the seabed—so even if you look down into the water, you’ll likely feel much less anxious than you would in murkier waters.
In addition, simply paddling a canoe unconsciously strengthens your core and upper body, while also providing the benefits of aerobic exercise.
It's also very popular among women because it helps tone the midsection and upper arms.
To summarize, canoeing on Ishigaki Island is popular for the following reasons.
・Beautiful scenery
・Many places to enjoy activities
・Can be experienced in a variety of settings
・Perfect for beginners
・Weight-loss benefits
10 Recommended Canoeing Spots on Ishigaki Island!
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island, Part 1: Sea Kayaking
The first type of canoe and kayak I’d like to introduce on Ishigaki Island is the ”sea kayak.”
There are many beautiful stretches of ocean around Ishigaki Island where you can go canoeing. From ”Kabira Bay,” hailed as Ishigaki Island’s premier scenic spot, to the ”Blue Cave,” the list goes on and on.
The sense of freedom and exhilaration you’ll experience canoeing in the waters off Ishigaki Island—which boast some of the clearest waters in the country—is truly unbeatable! Of course, you’ll also be able to admire the coral reefs and tropical fish right from your canoe.
Also, the brightly colored canoes—in shades of yellow and red, for example—as they paddle across the emerald-green sea make for a very picturesque scene. If you join a tour, many shops will provide photos for free, so it might be a good idea to have someone take some Instagram-worthy photos of you in a sea kayak.
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island, Part 2: Mangrove Canoeing
Next up is the mangrove canoe.
Ishigaki Island is home to the Miyara River mangrove forest, which has been designated a National Natural Monument. Many of the mangrove canoe tours on Ishigaki Island take place on either the Miyara River or the Fukidori River.
Paddling through a mangrove forest with the sounds of animals and rustling leaves serving as background music creates a wonderful sense of anticipation. You’re sure to get excited by the atmosphere—it feels like a dinosaur might pop out at any moment.
On the Miyara River, you can enjoy a cruise while being soothed by the lush greenery of the beautiful mangrove forest, which is designated as a Natural Monument.
On the other hand, the Fukidori River is an activity spot with a more intimate atmosphere than the Miyara River.
One of the most distinctive features of the Fukidori River is probably the ”Matchmaking Falls.” It’s a lot of fun to set a destination—like the Matchmaking Falls—and paddle your canoe toward it, so be sure to give it a try.
Mangrove canoeing is largely unaffected by weather and wind, so it can be enjoyed year-round. Since most tours operate even on rainy days, we highly recommend giving it a try.
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island, Part 3: Sunset Kayaking
Next up on our list of canoeing and kayaking activities on Ishigaki Island is the Sunset Kayak tour!
Because the air on Ishigaki Island is so clean, the sunsets are truly breathtaking. As a result, there are many great spots to watch the sunset. Among them, I highly recommend watching the sunset from the water.
Watching the sunset on Ishigaki Island while feeling the gentle sway of the calm, gentle waves is an absolutely breathtaking experience. Plus, with nothing around to obstruct your view, you can truly take in the sight of the sun sinking into the sea.
Let's take our time waiting for sunset so we don't miss the magic hour when the sky changes to seven different colors.
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island, Part 4: Sunrise Kayak
Sunrise Kayaking begins early in the morning amid the morning mist, allowing you to experience Ishigaki Island’s beautiful sunrise while listening to the birds singing.
The air on Ishigaki Island is even clearer in the morning, and with every deep breath, I feel as if my whole body is being cleansed from the inside out.
Amid the silence, the beauty of the sun slowly rising above the horizon is truly moving. Moreover, the morning sun streaming through the crisp, clear air feels warm and comforting, gently awakening your entire body.
Activities in the morning sun feel truly wonderful and are the perfect way to start your day, so be sure to give them a try!
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island ⑤ Fishing Kayaks
A fishing kayak is a kayak used to explore fishing spots and fish in shallow waters.
The appeal of fishing by kayak on Ishigaki Island is, of course, that you can see with your own eyes whether a fish has taken the bait or is chasing it. Since you’re fishing from a kayak, you can’t cast your lure very far, but because the water is so clear, when you’re fishing close by, you can actually see the moment a fish strikes.
It's just like a fishing game, lol
Try this thrilling fishing kayak experience, and you'll be an Ishigaki kayaking pro in no time!
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island (6): Kayaking in the Blue Cave
The Blue Cave is an underwater cave that creates a magical space where the interior glows blue due to the reflection of light. You'll cruise through it by kayak.
Inside the Blue Cave, you'll find breathtaking scenery that will leave you in awe, but the area surrounding the cave is also full of charm.
The waters around the cave are home to colorful coral reefs and fish swimming happily, which can be seen clearly from the surface.
Be sure to try a kayaking tour at the ”Blue Cave,” Ishigaki Island’s last unspoiled paradise.
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island ⑦ Miyara River
The Miyara River is the longest river on Ishigaki Island, stretching approximately 1,500 meters, and flows through a jungle-like area home to mangrove forests designated as a National Natural Monument.
A canoe cruise that lets you enjoy the forest is sure to be a soothing experience.
Canoeing on the Miyara River is extremely popular, so if you plan to join a tour, be sure to make your reservation well in advance!
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island ⑧ Fukidori River
The next canoeing tour we’ll introduce takes place on the Fukidori River. Compared to the Miyara River—Ishigaki Island’s largest river—the Fukidori River is not very large; it’s a compact river.
However, since canoeing on the Fukidori River starts at the ocean and involves cruising upstream from the mouth of the river, you can experience the various changes in the landscape along the way.
As you move from the ocean toward the river, the salinity changes. As a result, not only does the biota change, but the types of mangroves also differ. If you take a moment to observe these differences during your activity, you’ll be able to enjoy it even more.
In addition to enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Fukidori River and a jungle cruise through lush mangrove forests, there’s another highlight: ”Yabiku Falls,” known as a power spot for romance.
Yabiku Falls is commonly known as the ”Waterfall of Love,” and it’s also famous as a waterfall that brings success in romance. If there’s someone you’re interested in, why not take the plunge and ask them out?
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island ⑨ Nagura Bay
Nagura Bay, located in the southwestern part of Ishigaki Island, is the largest bay on the island. Nagura Bay is protected under the Ramsar Convention because it is home to native mangroves and a rich variety of flora and fauna.
One of the most captivating aspects of Nagura Bay—with its rich biodiversity—is the beautiful sunset views it offers.
Watching the sunset while canoeing on the calm waters is a truly blissful experience. Spending time with a loved one on a sunset canoe trip while taking in the beautiful evening scenery is sure to bring you even closer together.
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island (10): Kabira Bay
Last but not least, I’d like to introduce canoeing in Kabira Bay.
Kabira Bay is one of Ishigaki Island’s most iconic scenic spots and a stunning canoeing destination that has even earned three stars in the Michelin Green Guide Japan!
As you gaze down at the water from your canoe, you can catch a glimpse of an underwater world home to some 300 species of coral and more than 100 species of tropical fish.
As you cruise through Kabira Bay, you’ll spot a rock known as ”The Rock of Encounters” peeking out from the water’s surface. While it’s not yet widely known, it’s gaining popularity as a spot for love to blossom—so why not be one of the first to visit this up-and-coming destination?
Recommended Canoe Tours
There are various types of canoeing tours on Ishigaki Island, including mangrove cruises on the Miyara River, canoe trips to the Blue Cave, and fishing kayaking. While we highly recommend trying them all, in this article we’ll focus on introducing the canoe tours we particularly recommend.
Ishigaki Island Canoe Tours Part 1: Mangrove Canoeing & Blue Cave Snorkeling
The first tour we’d like to introduce is a package that lets you enjoy mangrove canoeing on the Miyara River and snorkeling at the Blue Cave.
As mentioned above, the Miyara River is the largest river on Ishigaki Island and is home to dense stands of mangroves, which are designated as a National Natural Monument. Paddling a canoe through this jungle-like setting really stirs your sense of adventure.
After cruising through the magnificent natural scenery, we'll head to the Blue Grotto.
When you snorkel inside the Blue Cave, you’ll be enveloped in a beautiful azure hue, and the experience is nothing short of breathtaking. There are also plenty of fish swimming around the cave, making it the perfect spot for observing marine life.
If you're looking for a fantastical escape from the everyday, the Jungle Cruise and the secluded "Blue Cave" are the perfect choices!
Ishigaki Island Canoe Tour Part 2: Mangrove Canoeing & Snorkeling at the "Phantom Island"
Next up is a combined tour featuring a mangrove canoe cruise and snorkeling at the "Island of Illusions."
The mangrove cruise is the Miyara River cruise I mentioned earlier. The difference between this and the previous tour isThe point is that the Blue Cave snorkeling tour has become the "Mysterious Island" snorkeling tour.
Have you heard of the ”Phantom Island” you can visit from Ishigaki Island?
”Hamajima,” known as the "Phantom Island," is an island that appears and disappears as if by magic due to the difference between high and low tides.
At low tide, this ”phantom island” is known for its gleaming white sandy beach. It’s an island surrounded by the ocean on all sides, offering a 360-degree panoramic ocean view.
Nearby is the ”Ishii-Nishi Lagoon,” Japan’s largest coral reef system, which is world-renowned as a snorkeling spot due to its abundance of coral and marine life.
Both are among the most popular spots on Ishigaki Island, so let's enjoy them to the fullest!
Canoeing on Ishigaki Island (Part 3): Fukidori River Canoeing & Hiking Tour
The last tour we’d like to introduce is the Fuki-tō River Canoe Cruise & Hiking Tour.
Since the Fuki-dori River canoe trip starts at the ocean and gradually heads upstream, you can enjoy observing how the flora and fauna change as the salinity shifts.
After enjoying the canoe cruise, we’ll head ashore and go on a hike to Yabiku Falls. Yabiku Falls is also known as a ”power spot for romance” and is often referred to as the “Matchmaking Falls.”
Let's venture deep into the jungle and aim to improve our love lives!
in the end
We’ve introduced SUP, canoeing, and kayaking on Ishigaki Island. What did you think?
All plansYou're sure to have a great time, so please feel free to join us.
Thank you for reading to the end.
This article was written by.
